title: In the zeal to synthesize: a call for congruency.
abstract: In this column, the author provides a clear explanation of the nature of meta-analysis, systematic reviews, integrative reviews, meta-synthesis, and meta summary along with a discussion of the paradigms that support each. Also the appropriateness of these methods of synthesis and a recommendation as to their use is discussed in terms of the utility of research.
authors.affiliation: Saint Xavier University, Woodridge, IL 60517, USA. Florczak@sxu.edu
authors.forename: Kristine L
authors.initials: KL
authors.lastname: Florczak
mesh_terms: D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D012196:Review Literature as Topic
keywords: integrative reviews; meta-analysis; meta-synthesis; metasummary; systematic reviews